The October 7th massacre in Israel should not cause Papa to bring out his bromide about sifting and winnowing. The monstrous events of that day present moral clarity of thought. Yet, I am dismayed that so many seem to easily lapse into various stages of moral confusion. Identifying pure and simple evil was easy. Yet, others have difficulty confronting evil. Does absolute evil drive some into a cacoon of comforting moral relativism? Perhaps a version of sticking one’s head in the sand? Or, another example of the education system failure to promote critical thinking? Or, today’s flood of news sources; both good and bad?

I am reminded about a walk taken on a sunny afternoon many years ago. A beautiful flower garden was at the border of what we once called a truck farm. Such small farming plots were close to or within the city limits. An old geezer in baggy overall jeans was tending his flowers. A conversation about seeds, soil and watering ensued. It was all very pleasant. Perhaps the old guy became comfortable with the chat as he reached into his back pocket and brought out a crumbled phamphlet. The leaflet featured a swastika beside Hitler’s face. He was eager to explain the source of all the world’s current problems. Antisemitic bile destroyed the old man’s perceived gentleness.

His propaganda was localized and limited to ragged old pages undoubtedly passed between like thinking cretins. In today’s world you will not only face in person purveyors of hate and mis-information but will also be exposed to many news sources as well as platform “news”. Now, more than ever, be vigilant in what you read/consume. When you are older, (BTW: Papa still thinks 21 is a better voting age than 18) your votes will help determine our leaders and you’d best start the sifting and winnowing process early and often. When sorting things out in a confused world it might be valuable to recognize that sometimes pure evil does exist and it is up to no good. Muddled messages and thinking doesn’t necessarily equate to profound thought. Simplicity can exist and often be correct.